Van Graan defends decision to sign SA teen duo

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Cape Town - Munster coach Johann van Graan has defended his club’s decision to sign two prominent South African teenagers.

Prop Keynan Knox and cente/fullback Matt Moorerecently linked up with Munster’s Academy after completing their schooling at Michaelhouse and St Andrew’s College, respectively.

Both players played Craven Week in South Africa.

It led to criticism in some quarters, with some pundits believing the club should instead look to invest in young Irish players.

But Van Graan told the Limerick Leaderthat he didn’t think it sent the wrong message.

"Munster have done their succession planning very, very well. These two young players have been brought in before I came to Munster, but it has been a thorough process,” Van Graan said.

"I think the important thing for Munster is to look at the home-grown players first. If you look at the current squad, I believe over 70% are home grown players and it is important that we back players from Munster first.”

Van Graan joined Munster at the end of last year, replacing compatriot Rassie Erasmus, who returned to South Africa to become SA Rugby’s director of rugby.

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